Whether it is your first time or you have been through this before, the uncertainty can weigh heavily on you, but you do not have to go through it alone. At Los Angeles DUI Attorney, we understand the stress and confusion that comes with a DUI charge, and we are here to guide you through the process with compassion.
From figuring out what to do immediately after your arrest to challenging the evidence, an Alondra Park DUI lawyer is committed to protecting your rights and helping you move forward.
What to Do if You Are Arrested for DUI in California
If you have been arrested for a DUI, your mind is likely racing with questions. You may wonder what will happen next and if you need a lawyer immediately. Stay calm and remember to comply because of the penalty for refusing a breathalyzer test in California.
The legal process is just beginning, and there are steps you can take to protect yourself. After your arrest, you will be taken into custody, but it is important to exercise your right to remain silent until you have spoken to a lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so avoiding making statements without legal guidance is best.
Once you are released, either on bail or your recognizance, your next step should be to consult with a DUI attorney in Alondra Park who understands the nuances of California law. Time is a factor in DUI cases, especially in California, where you have only ten days to request a DMV hearing to challenge the suspension of your driver’s license.
Failing to act quickly could result in an automatic suspension, so the sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better your chances of retaining your driving privileges.
How a DUI Conviction Can Affect Your Driving Record
A DUI conviction can have lasting effects on your driving record, and it is something that can follow you for years. In California, a DUI remains on your record for ten years, which means it will come up every time you are pulled over or apply for car insurance. This can lead to increased premiums, more scrutiny from law enforcement, and the potential for harsher penalties if caught driving under the influence again.
But it is not just about insurance rates or license points. A DUI conviction can also affect your ability to secure certain jobs, especially if driving is part of your job description. Employers may view a DUI on your record as a liability, making finding work in trucking, delivery services, or even certain office jobs harder.
If you are worried about how a DUI might affect your future, you are not alone. Many people face these challenges, but with the right legal guidance, you may be able to minimize the damage. In some cases, getting your DUI expunged from your record is possible, which can significantly improve your prospects moving forward.
How to Challenge Breathalyzer Results
Breathalyzer tests are often vital evidence in DUI cases, but they are not foolproof. Many factors can influence the accuracy of these results, and it is possible to challenge them in court with your DUI lawyer in Alondra Park. If you believe the results of your breathalyzer test were inaccurate, here are a few things that could be called into question:
- Calibration issues: Breathalyzers must be properly calibrated and maintained to ensure accurate readings. If the device wasn’t functioning correctly, the results may not be valid.
- User error: The person administering the test needs to follow strict protocols. Any deviation from these protocols could result in inaccurate readings.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, like acid reflux or diabetes, can interfere with the accuracy of a breathalyzer test, leading to false positives.
If these issues apply to your case, your lawyer can help you challenge the results. They may potentially have the evidence thrown out as they understand the science of breathalyzer and chemical tests in DUI cases. This could significantly weaken the prosecution’s case against you and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
The Difference Between DUI and DWI in California
While many states distinguish between DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated), California does not. In this state, both terms are used interchangeably to refer to operating a vehicle while impaired, whether by alcohol or drugs. That means you could face the same penalties whether your impairment comes from alcohol, prescription medication, or illegal substances.
However, there are still nuances within driving under the influence charges that can affect the severity of your penalties. For example, if you have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, you will likely face standard DUI charges. But if your BAC is exceptionally high (0.15% or more), you could face aggravated DUI charges, which come with harsher penalties, including longer license suspensions and steeper fines.
Even if your BAC is below the legal limit, you could still be charged with a DUI if law enforcement believes you are impaired. This is especially true in cases involving drugs, where there is no standardized BAC threshold. Your behavior, driving patterns, and other evidence will play a role in determining whether you are charged.
Work With an Alondra Park DUI Attorney
At Los Angeles DUI Attorney, our team can connect you with a lawyer to help you every step of the way, from your initial arrest to fighting the charges in court. Whether you need help challenging a breathalyzer result or are worried about how a conviction could impact your future, we have the experience and dedication to fight for the best possible outcome.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation with an Alondra Park DUI lawyer, and let us help you take the first step toward resolving your case.
